Lying at the heart of UVA’s values of inclusivity and artistic expression, the 2024 CultureFest brought the University’s diverse backgrounds to life. Through captivating performances and rich cuisine, this event was a lively opportunity for students and faculty to experience different traditions within Grounds.
CultureFest combined three large student organizations: Vietnamese Student Association (VSA), Chinese Student Association (CSA), and Organization of Young Filipino Americans (OYFA). In addition to these prominent clubs, there were others that delivered entertainment such as the Taekwondo club, Korean Student Association (KSA), and Taiwanese Student Association (TSA). Together, VSA, CSA, and OYFA worked to put on an impactful and memorable show. Held on Saturday, October 26 at the Amphitheatre, there were multiple performances to see and things to do, such as visiting information booths that CIOs had set up. Attendees got a ticket beforehand for free access to the swag, which included complimentary food, boba, and merchandise.
To gain a firsthand perspective on the impact of CultureFest, I spoke with a student who not only attended but was a part in bringing the event to life. First-year Pan Pan Yang has answered several questions about the significance of celebrating UVA’s diverse community, and attested that the event was a success:
What is CultureFest?
CultureFest is an event where all of the multicultural organizations at UVA can share their cultures with the community.
What was your role and for what organization did you fulfill this role for?
I performed a dance for OYFA (Organization of Young Filipino Americans).
What inspired you to get involved?
I was inspired by both my peers and the older members in OYFA. They were very welcoming and encouraging throughout the weeks leading up to CultureFest.
What do you hope that attendees took away from CultureFest?
I hope that the attendees learned more about the cultures that they were interested in and got inspired to participate in the event next year.
What was the best or most rewarding part of CultureFest?
The most rewarding part of CultureFest was probably the night before the actual event. That was when we got to see all the dances being put together for the first time, and get a run through of what would happen the next day at the Amphitheater.
What was the most challenging part?
The most challenging part was getting over the nerves and anxiety of performing since the dances moved along very quickly and we did not get a chance to rehearse on stage.
Would you be a part of this again next year, and why?
Yes, I would definitely be a part of the CultureFest next year! There are dances from other clubs that look very fun and I would love to get a chance to perform again.
What does CultureFest mean to you, personally?
To me, Culturefest was a time to embrace those who were in my organization and celebrate the cultures of all of the clubs.
Were there other performances or parts of CultureFest that you found to be memorable?
I loved watching the other performances-especially Wushu, Taekwondo, and Akademix! All of the clubs put in so much for this event and it was very evident in their performances.
Due to the successful turnout of this year’s CultureFest, students and organizers alike are eager to see how this event will continue to evolve and grow in future years. For those who were able to contribute to this celebration of the global community, CultureFest provided a welcome opportunity to not only freely share their culture but also to bond with passionate like-minded individuals. Either through volunteering or attending, UVA students are encouraged to get involved in the next CultureFest.
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